Kinshasa, December 8th, 2025 (CPA).- The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have unveiled on Monday ‘Assad’, the official mascot of the 2025 African Cup of Nations (CAN) football tournament, scheduled to take place from December 21st, 2025, to January 18th, 2026, in Morocco, CPA has learned on the continental sports body’s website.
‘The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) are pleased to present “Assad”, the official mascot of the Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, a vibrant symbol of African pride and passion for football,’ it is read. According to the source, inspired by the Atlas Lion, one of Morocco’s most iconic national symbols, both unifying and powerful across the African continent, Assad takes his name from the Arabic word meaning ‘strength,’ adding that he embodies cultural strength, pride and authenticity, values that resonate deeply with fans in Morocco and across Africa.
As ambassador for the tournament, Assad symbolises the enthusiasm, fervour and energy that make the continent’s most prestigious football competition so great. He will play a key role in creating a lasting emotional connection with audiences and in mobilising all generations, especially children and families, who are at the heart of African football culture and its future. Present in stadiums, fan zones and community events, Assad will be one of the main drivers of fan engagement, supporting marketing and promotional activities, energising digital content and interactive experiences, while playing a lasting role in building and promoting the CAF brand identity. Assad’s visual identity is based on a friendly, youthful lion whose expressive features and energetic personality reflect the warmth, creativity and diversity of Africa.
His colour palette and overall style fit perfectly with the identity of CAN Morocco 2025, ensuring a consistent, modern and dynamic image for the tournament. According to the CAF website, Assad is projected beyond CAN 2025 and is firmly rooted in the long-term vision for African football. He will continue to support CAF’s youth and grassroots football development programmes, school and community initiatives, and future forms of digital storytelling. A true ambassador for African football, Assad’s mission is to inspire, unite and pass on his knowledge to new generations across the continent. With Assad, it has been indicated, CAN 2025 is set to offer a memorable experience, celebrating the unity, pride and strength of African football, and his arrival is seen as a decisive step in affirming the tournament’s identity and deepening its cultural footprint.